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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, commonly known as Saudi Arabia (translated as Saudi Arabia in Taiwan), or simply Saudi, is located on the Arabian Peninsula in southwestern Asia, bordering the Persian Gulf to the east and the Red Sea to the west. It shares borders with Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Yemen, Bahrain, and Qatar. A veritable "oil kingdom," Saudi Arabia boasts the world's largest oil reserves and production, making it one of the world's wealthiest countries.
The Saudi government is encouraging the development of the private sector to reduce the country's dependence on oil exports and provide more employment opportunities for its rapidly growing population. Saudi Arabia also has a well-developed tourism industry. Mecca and Medina, the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, are two of Saudi Arabia's most popular tourist destinations. Other attractions, such as the carved tombs at the Madain Saleh archaeological site, are also worth visiting.
Saudi Arabia's western highlands have a Mediterranean climate, while other areas have a tropical desert climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching over 50°C; winters are mild.
Since Saudi Arabia has fewer natural landscapes, it is not greatly affected by the weather, but to make your outing more comfortable, you can choose to go there in winter.
Red Sea
The Red Sea boasts the second-warmest water temperature in the world, second only to the Dead Sea, maintaining a constant temperature of around 21°C even in winter. The beaches are coarse, coral reefs abound, and beautiful seagulls are common sights. The Red Sea is a renowned diving destination, with excursions available for $75 per person, allowing you to soak in the sea breeze and experience the exotic scenery. The underwater world here is rich and diverse, with an abundance of corals and fish.
Tiran Island
Tiran Island straddles two Egyptian cities, once forming a vital waterway connecting the two coasts. In recent years, with the growth of tourism, more and more people are flocking here for diving. Its rich marine resources and beautiful underwater world have made it a favorite diving spot.
Recommended play time: 3-4 days
Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and home to its two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina. Historically, it has been a center of trade, culture, and religion, and it preserves ancient Nabatean and Islamic heritage sites.
Saudi Arabia is in the Middle East, bordering Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Oman, and Yemen. Major entry points are King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh), King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport (Medina). Within cities, transportation includes taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, and the Riyadh metro (in Riyadh).
For Al-Ula, Madain Saleh, and guided desert tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season (October–April).
10–14 days are ideal to experience major cities, cultural sites, and desert landscapes comfortably.
Guided tours are widely available in English and Arabic, especially at Al-Ula, museums, and desert tours. Some audio guides are provided at major heritage sites and museums.
Riyadh (2–3 days) → Al-Ula and Madain Saleh (2–3 days) → Jeddah (2–3 days) → Asir Mountains (1–2 days) → Rub' al Khali/Empty Quarter desert tour (2 days) → Medina/Mecca (optional, for Muslim visitors).
Al-Ula offers night light shows during festivals. Some cultural sites in Riyadh and Jeddah have evening tours. Desert camps in Rub' al Khali provide overnight experiences with stargazing.
Tourist sites are busiest during October–April. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded. Religious sites in Mecca and Medina are crowded during Hajj and Ramadan.
Urban sites and museums are generally accessible. Desert tours and historic sites like Al-Ula involve walking or climbing, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors; assistance and guided services are available.
Saudi Riyal (SAR) is used. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities and resorts, but cash is useful in rural areas and small markets.
Halal food is standard; vegetarian and vegan options are available in major restaurants and hotels across Saudi Arabia.
